Here’s a simple and classic recipe for a Baked Potato that turns out perfectly crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes (or any starchy potato)
- Olive oil (or melted butter)
- Salt (preferably coarse or sea salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, chives, shredded cheese, bacon bits, butter, or any of your favorites!
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Dry them completely with a towel.
- Using a fork, poke each potato a few times all over (this helps steam escape during baking).
3. Season the Potatoes:
- Rub each potato with a little olive oil (or melted butter) to coat the skin.
- Sprinkle generously with salt. You can also add a little freshly ground black pepper if desired.
4. Bake:
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet if you prefer.
- Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of your potatoes. They’re done when the skin is crispy and a fork or knife easily pierces through the flesh of the potato.
5. Check for Doneness:
- Test doneness by inserting a fork or skewer into the thickest part of the potato. If it slides in easily, the potatoes are ready!
6. Serve:
- Slice the potatoes open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
- Top with your favorite toppings, like a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, chives, butter, or bacon bits. You can also get creative with other toppings, like chili or pulled pork for a heartier meal.
Tips:
- For extra crispy skin, you can rub the potatoes with a bit of olive oil and salt before baking, and then bake them directly on the oven rack.
- If you want the potatoes done faster, you can microwave them for 5-7 minutes per potato before transferring them to the oven to crisp up the skin (bake for about 20 minutes).
- Russet potatoes are the best for baking due to their fluffy interior and thick skin.
Perfect baked potatoes are simple, yet always satisfying! Enjoy them with your favorite toppings, or serve as a side dish for steak, chicken, or any other meal.